Reset Inspiration #010

Making decisions is hard, especially when it comes to some well deserved R&R. We've taken the hard work out of your holiday planning so you can sit back, relax, and rest assured that we're here to offer a helping hand with some inspiration each month, covering the why, when, and most importantly, where.

Adventure: Cebu - Philippines

When: January - April

Just a few hours flight from Manila, Cebu island is a gem in the southern Philippines brimming with adventure. From swimming with whale sharks to diving through pristine shores, this island will tick every box for the ocean adventurer. Head down to Moalboal if you want to snorkel amongst a sardine run; this phenomena takes place only 30m from the shore, making it a very easy swim to witness an awe-inspiring natural event. From there you can head further south to Oslob for some whale watching, and even swim amongst the gentle giant beauties that are whale sharks.

If you prefer your adventures above ground, Cebu has a huge amount to offer. From amusement parks to zip-lining adventures, or a SkyWalk in the heart of the city (head to the Crown Regency Hotel to walk on glass panels way up in the sky) you can find heart-racing activities right in the city centre. Or if you're a lover of nature, you can try hiking some of Cebu's rolling hills, from Osmena Peak to Casino Peak to Mt. Mago - you could even take a day trip over to Bohol's chocolate hills - a natural wonder to behold.

When you're all adventured out you can head to Cebu City and try the local cuisine, or indulge in a trip to a 75-acre mall; the third largest in the Philippines.

Where to Stay: Hotels are affordable across the island, and you'll find something for everyone from luxury resorts to wooden dorm rooms in a hostel.

Culture: Kyoto - Japan

When: Year Round, or March - April for Cherry Blossom Season

Kyoto can only be described as magical; the heart of traditional Japanese culture, and an inspiration for Western and Eastern travellers alike for a more mindful holiday experience. From visiting golden temples and Zen gardens to forest bathing in bamboo forests and taking part in tea ceremonies, you'll be left wanting far more time to explore everything Kyoto has to offer.

Whether you love exploring temples, nature, a country's cuisine, or traditional shows, Kyoto offers it all; it's just a matter of prioritising what you want to do within the time-frame you have, leaving room to wander aimlessly down the narrow streets and winding paths between sight-seeing. Depending on your preference you can choose to visit more famous temples such as the Golden and Silver Pavilions, or quieter ones from the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple to the Entoku-in Temple. With activities like cooking classes, brewing your own matcha in a Teahouse, cycling along the Kamo river or visiting the Kyoto Botanical Gardens, it's impossible to fall short of things to do - the only problem will be fitting them all into your schedule.

Where to Stay: For an all-round experience you should plan a stay in a Ryokan - a traditional Japanese inn - for an authentic experience. Expect to sleep on a tatami mat or a futon, with onsen baths and kaiseki banquet meals.

Relax: Cornwall - England

When: April - August

If you've seen even one episode of Poldark you'll know why Cornwall has made it onto the list. With its stunning coastline and quaint towns, Cornwall provides a breath of fresh air for a weary traveller looking to find some inner peace. Although a sleepy part of the UK with a slower way of life, there is still plenty to see and down on the south western coast of England.

The Eden Project is an iconic landmark; an eco-park and educational centre for all things botanical and beyond. Alternatively you can visit Saint Michael's Mount, which can be visited on foot when the tide is low. Other natural attractions include Land's End, Kynance Cove, and Fistral Beach, or if you're looking for man-made wonders head over to the Minack Theatre and Tintagel Castle.

Once you're all activitied out, head to a town like St Ives, Truro, or Penzance for some fine cuisine, English wine, and a little bit of local shopping if it takes your fancy.

Where to Stay: Treat yourself to a coastal hotel; better yet if it has a spa so you can sit in a hot tub overlooking the sea with a glass of bubbly in hand.